On March 13, 2020, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in a narrow 4-3 decision to lift the state’s Safer At Home Order. Despite requests from Republican lawmakers to maintain the order for a week to communicate new safety protocols, the court’s decision was immediate. This action led to a surge of chaos, transforming Wisconsin into a problematic hot spot for the coronavirus.
With safety measures stripped away, crowds rushed to local bars, often disregarding social distancing. In the wake of this decision, counties and municipalities scrambled to implement their own guidelines, many of which were soon abandoned due to fears of legal repercussions. Meanwhile, the virus continued to spread unchecked.
The reality is that when the Wisconsin Supreme Court overturned the governor’s stay-at-home order, the risk of contracting coronavirus remained unchanged from the day before. Yet, some interpreted this ruling as a sign that it was now safe to gather freely. People flocked to bars, neglecting social distancing and shunning face masks, as if the court had magically eliminated the risk of infection.
Even individuals from neighboring Illinois, still under strict stay-at-home orders, crossed the border, seemingly believing there was some protective barrier against the virus. (Spoiler alert: there wasn’t.) Just a week prior, face masks were commonly seen in grocery stores; now, they had become a rarity. It was as if the court’s ruling had cast a spell, making public spaces immune to the virus.
Let’s be clear: the novel coronavirus does not abide by any “rules.” It only reacts to our actions.
For months, we have envisioned an end to this crisis, but reality tells us there is no clear “peace treaty” with COVID-19—especially not until a vaccine is widely available. The transition will be gradual and often confusing. We must remember that reopening does not equate to a “free for all.”
To those who think, “if you’re worried about getting sick, just stay home,” consider this analogy: telling someone who fears a drunk driver to simply avoid driving is absurd.
We’ve repeatedly heard the phrase “we’re all in this together,” yet it’s disheartening to see how quickly that sentiment eroded. Many are refusing to wear masks or adhere to safety protocols, putting others at risk simply because they personally feel invulnerable.
Engaging in reckless behavior—packing into bars, ignoring mask guidelines, and breaching the six-foot distance—demonstrates a selfish disregard for public health. Phrases like “we’re all going to die eventually” reflect a callous attitude. Ignoring the seriousness of this pandemic does not alter the reality we face.
Do not fall into complacency. Even if case numbers are low in your area, that does not mean your community is immune. The reason your local cases may be stable or declining is likely due to diligent social distancing practices.
We have invested too much effort to abandon our progress. Take it from health and medical experts who emphasize the risks of complacency. Dr. Laura Simmons, a prominent infectious disease specialist, warns that “if regions rush to reopen without adequate safeguards, we risk spikes that could lead to outbreaks.”
The consequences of hasty reopenings may not be immediately visible, which could lead to further complacency. As noted by the New York Times, we lack comprehensive testing, complicating our understanding of the pandemic’s status. It typically takes 2-3 weeks from exposure to the point where individuals may require medical attention, meaning a false sense of security could lead to more lax safety measures.
“We’re not reopening based on scientific evidence,” cautioned Dr. Eric Thompson, a former director at the CDC, “but rather due to political pressure. This could have dire consequences.”
While we eventually need to relax restrictions, it must be done carefully and responsibly. It’s disheartening to see reckless behavior jeopardizing public safety fueled by misinformation and selfishness. Reopening doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety; we can balance economic activity with health measures.
Even if wearing a mask isn’t mandated, it remains a crucial public health practice. A mask protects others, showcasing a commitment to community welfare. Arguments about personal freedom are weak when we accept that certain public norms—like wearing shoes and shirts—are necessary.
Evidence indicates that widespread mask usage significantly reduces transmission rates. So wear your mask, maintain social distance, avoid gatherings with those outside your household, and limit travel when possible.
In short: Stay smart and prioritize collective safety.
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Summary:
As we navigate reopening amid the pandemic, it’s crucial to remember that this does not permit reckless behavior. The virus remains a threat, and adhering to safety protocols is essential to maintain public health. Wearing masks and practicing social distancing are still vital. Approach reopening with caution and care for others.
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